View our Gastroscopy Preparation and Information Sheet The endoscope also has a "side channel" down which various instruments can pass. These can be manipulated by the doctor to take a small sample (biopsy) from the inside lining of the stomach by using an thin "grabbing" instrument which is passed down the side channel.
What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a procedure used to examine the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach and duodenum (first part of small intestines). An endoscope is a thin, flexible, telescope which is about as thick as a little finger. The endoscope is passed through the mouth into the esophagus and down towards the stomach and duodenum. The tip of the endoscope contains a light and a tiny video camera so the doctor can see inside your gut.
Why do I Need to Have a Gastroscopy?
What Happens During a Gastroscopy? When you arrive at the endoscopy unit you will be registered and asked to sign the consent form. The test can be done without sedation but most people prefer to have sedation during the procedure. A topical anaesthetic agent will be used to numb the throat and reduce gagging. You will be drowsy but conscious during the gastroscopy. The drowsiness can last for up to a couple hours after. If you have sedation, you must have a responsible adult to drive you home or accompany you in a taxi. We do not allow you to go home by public transport or to take a taxi on your own. You cannot drive, operate dangerous machinery or go back to work until the next day. You should avoid making important decisions or drinking alcohol during this period. After the procedure you will be allowed to drink and eat soft foods once the sedation and freezing have worn off. Resume your usual diet the next day. While a gastroscopy only takes about 5 minutes to perform, you will be in the recovery area for about 30-45 minutes while the sedation wears off. We will let you know the results of the test before you go home. How do I Prepare? What are the Risks of Gastroscopy? Gastroscopy is a very common, safe procedure. While there are certain risks associated with this procedure they are outweighed in most instances by the advantages of establishing the correct diagnosis. What symptoms can be expected after a gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy (EGD), is a commonly performed routine test. This test may be advised if you have symptoms such as recurring indigestion, recurring heartburn, pains in the upper abdomen, repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or other symptoms thought to be coming from the upper gut. The sort of conditions which can be confirmed (or ruled out) include:
The gastroscope is passed through the mouth. A mouth guard is used to protect your teeth. Dentures should be removed. While gastroscopy can be uncomfortable, it is not usually painful. Some people experience a desire to cough or gag when the scope is passed into the esophagus
During the procedure small samples (biopsies) may be taken. These will be sent to the laboratory for examination by the pathologist. The testing may include looking for a bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori which is associated with an increased risk of ulcers.
Before Gastroscopy:
In the hands of an experienced endoscopist the risks are very low. They include the following:
The effects of the sedation can last for the rest of the day leaving you feeling drowsy. During this time you should avoid alcohol. You may have a sore throat especially if there was a lot of gagging during the gastroscopy. This normally resolves in a day or two. You can use lozenges for this. Most people feel a bit bloated from the introduced air. If you have severe pain or any other worrying symptoms you should contact either the doctor who did the gastroscopy or your family doctor or go to the emergency department at the nearest hospital.